November 2, 2010

As a pet owner, you are probably already aware that diarrhea is a relatively common symptom for cats. In most cases, when they are suffering from diarrhea cats just need a bit of time to adjust and the diarrhea cures itself. Dietary changes or mild intestinal irritation are among the main causes for diarrhea in cats, but when they have diarrhea cats could also be very sick and you may need to visit your veterinarian. Indeed, diarrhea in cats can also be caused by parasites, bacteria, or even a more serious disease like cancer, pancreatitis, or liver disease.

Determining the severity of your cat’s diarrhea can be tricky. While you are no doubt serious about pet healthcare, you do not want to run to the veterinarian every time you cat shows the slightest indication of illness. You can help your cat avoid diarrhea by maintaining a consistent diet. You should never abruptly change your cat’s diet and most experts recommend that you choose one brand of food and stick with it. However, if you have found a better pet food or you need to change your cat’s diet for any reason, you should make the changes gradually. Initially, you can mix the old food and new food, adding a little more of the new food every day until the change is complete.

Still, as mentioned, there may be more serious causes of cat diarrhea. If there are parasitic or bacterial infections, your veterinarian will likely recommend some pet medication, cat antibiotics, or other course of treatment aimed at killing the parasites or bacteria. When they are suffering from diarrhea cats need plenty of fluid so they stay hydrated. Kittens with diarrhea should visit the veterinarian immediately. However, adult cats should be taken to the veterinarian only if they have had diarrhea for a prolonged period or if you notice other symptoms like vomiting, lethargy, or changes in appetite.

Disclaimer: CritterCures is an educational resource, and all information herein is strictly for educational purposes. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure diseases, nor is it meant to replace the (prescribed) treatment or recommendations of your veterinarian or healthcare provider. Always inform your veterinarian or healthcare provider of any products that your pet are taking, including herbal remedies and supplements.